Future Artists Programme: Building Worlds for Play with Nick Murray

The programme is divided into two chapters of four workshops (one for ages 16-18 and one for ages 19-25) followed by a 2-day Game Development Weekend where creatives from both chapters will come together to create games that will be shown at Somerset House’s 25th Birthday weekend on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September 2025.

Led by award-winning producer, game-maker, and artist Nick Murray, along with guest facilitators, Building Worlds for Play is an introduction to the world of innovative game-design, interactive media, and storytelling. You will learn the basics of digital game-making, tabletop game design, build confidence, develop creative skills and play!

Building Worlds for Play is more than just an artist development programme. In addition to developing skills, you can expect to grow in:

1. Hands-on game development: Learn the fundamentals of game design, interactive media, and storytelling through practical workshops.
2. Collaboration skills: Work alongside other young creatives, honing your teamwork and communication skills in a collaborative environment.
3. Creative confidence: Build confidence in your creative ideas and decision-making processes as you explore different artistic practices.
4. Multidisciplinary experience: Engage with various creative practices, expanding your artistic abilities beyond traditional boundaries.
5. Technical skills: Gain knowledge in innovative game-design tools and interactive media techniques using Construct, Downpour and tabletop/TTRPG mechanics.
6. Showcasing your work: A unique opportunity to develop games that will be showcased at Somerset House’s 25th Birthday weekend.

Programme Dates:

Chapter 1 (Ages 19-25):
Wednesday 28 May; 18.30-21.00
Wednesday 11 June; 18.30-21.00
Wednesday 25 June; 18.30-21.00
Wednesday 09 July; 18.30-21.00

Chapter 2 (Ages 16-18):
Wednesday 23 July; 15.00-17.30
Wednesday 6 August; 15.00-17.30
Wednesday 20 August; 15.00-17.30
Wednesday 03 September; 15.00-17.30

Chapter 3: Game Development Weekend (Ages 16-25):
This weekend is only open to participants who have taken part in the 4-session programme.
Saturday 06 and Sunday 07 September; 10.00-17.00

Somerset House Birthday Weekend (Public sharing of work):
Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September; 10.00-17.00

Location: Somerset House, Strand, London

Cost: FREE (travel expenses of up to £10 per day will be covered and refreshments will be provided)

Application Deadline: Tuesday 29 April 2025, 9am